Three tips to prevent and manage prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death among men in our country. The prostate gland, found below the bladder, helps make and transport semen. Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the gland grow uncontrollably, eventually forming a tumor. Trouble urinating and blood in the urine are common symptoms. The condition is curable if detected early. Here are the treatments, meal plans, and lifestyle tips that help prevent and manage prostate cancer:
Treatment options
Treatment is vital to kill harmful cells and stop the disease from spreading. Popular treatment options for prostate cancer are:
Xofigo
It is an FDA-approved option for treating metastatic prostate cancer in cases where the disease has spread to the bones but not other organs. Xofigo binds with bone minerals, delivering radiation directly to bone tumors. Doing so reduces damage to the nearby normal tissues. Xofigo’s most common side effects include vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea.
Enzalutamide
It helps treat prostate cancer in men, where cancer has spread to other body parts. Enzalutamide is also used for those who do not get better with hormone therapy or other surgical treatments for lowering testosterone levels. It works by blocking the effects of the male reproductive hormone, which, in turn, stops cancer growth and further spread.
Studies indicate that using Xofigo and enzalutamide simultaneously might produce better results. One must consult a doctor before using any of these treatment options.
Opting for healthier food habits
While nutrition cannot cure prostate cancer, it can help manage the symptoms and lower the risk. The best foods to eat are:
Red fruits and vegetables
Red fruits and vegetables like tomatoes and watermelons have a powerful antioxidant called lycopene. Many research studies point out that lycopene reduces the progression and growth of prostate cancer cells. However, picking ripened red fruits and veggies is essential as the antioxidant is known to be present in high amounts in them.
Protein-rich foods
Individuals undergoing cancer treatment often feel tired and low on energy. Protein helps energize the body and build muscle. The best protein-based foods include beans like kidney beans, pinto beans, and different varieties of nuts. Lean poultry like fish and turkey are also suitable options.
Soybeans
The nutrient isoflavone has many health benefits and may also be linked to lower cancer risk. It is largely found in tofu made from soybeans or soy products. Isoflavone is also present in chickpeas, lentils, and peanuts.
Individuals must avoid the following foods to lower prostate cancer risk and manage the condition:
Red and processed meat
A meal plan with high amounts of red meat is known to increase the risk of prostate cancer as they contain HCAs, a substance capable of producing cancer in living tissues. HCAs develop when red meat is cooked at high temperatures, such as grilling or boiling. Pork, beef, hot dogs, and sausages are a few examples of such foods that can increase the risk of prostate cancer.
Fatty foods
Research has shown a strong link between saturated fats and an increased risk for prostate cancer. These fats are known to be found in meats like bacon and beef. They are also found in butter and cheese. Other common sources of saturated fats include pastries, candies, and many types of tinned or pre-packaged foods. One must ensure not to add high amounts of these to the meal plan.
Alcohol
Research with over 10,000 men was conducted as part of the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial. It was uncovered that heavy drinkers of alcohol were twice as likely to develop advanced prostate cancer than moderate drinkers. For this purpose, heavy drinking is defined as the consumption of alcohol more than three drinks a day or more than 20 drinks a week.
- Lifestyle modifications
frequent intercourse
A major study has proven that men who frequently ejaculate, either with or without their partner, are two-thirds less likely to be susceptible to prostate cancer. It is also theorized that ejaculation clears the body of toxins that could eventually cause inflammation.
Regular exercise
Consistent workouts can help the person to get out of a sedentary lifestyle, and it also goes a long way to preventing cancer. Activities like swimming, bicycling, running, and walking – for just 30 minutes a day will improve overall health, like better metabolism and cardiovascular health. Research also points out that men with larger waist circumference and increased BMI range are highly susceptible to prostate cancer.
In addition, mindful practices like breathing exercises help to rejuvenate the body by enabling better blood circulation;
Stop smoking
Quitting the smoking habit is directly linked to lowering the risk of developing cancer. If you have been smoking and have a family history of prostate cancer, it is only advisable to consult a therapist immediately to help you get out of this habit.
Prostate cancer is popularly referred to as the ‘disease of aging.’ While age, race, and genes are not something one can change, diet and lifestyle can sure can.
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a612033.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/prostate-cancer/foods-to-avoid-for-prostate-health#alcohol
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/about/what-is-prostate-cancer.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/9-tips-to-prevent-prostate-cancer#limit-fat-intake
